Room Types

Choosing a hotel with family rooms or interconnecting rooms can make your trip much easier. These options give you more space to spread out and help keep routines simple for younger children. Interconnecting rooms are especially useful if you’re travelling with teens who want more privacy and a proper bed instead of a sofa bed.

Child-Friendly Facilities

Every family is different, so think about what will make your stay enjoyable. Some hotels offer indoor pools, outdoor play areas, games rooms, or kids’ menus. Others provide a simpler, quiet place to unwind after a busy day. Whatever you prefer, choosing a hotel that genuinely welcomes children – and includes small touches that make parents’ lives easier – can make a big difference.

Hotel Location

Different parts of the Lake District suit different types of family trips:

• Bowness-on-Windermere: Perfect for lake cruises, family restaurants, and The World of Beatrix Potter.

• Keswick: Home to the Keswick Museum and Derwent Pencil Museum, with plenty of gentle walks nearby.

• Ambleside: A good mix of walking routes, shops, and places to eat.

• Coniston: Quieter, but great for outdoor adventures like canoeing or cycling.

• Whinlatter Forest: Ideal for active families, with walking trails, mountain biking, and a Go Ape course.

Choose the area that best matches your family’s interests and planned activities.

Transport and Parking

Easy transport and parking can make exploring the Lakes far more relaxed. If you’re not driving, look for hotels near train stations or bus routes so you can get around without hassle. If you are driving, check whether the hotel provides parking and if you need a permit. After a long journey, staying near popular hubs like Windermere or Keswick can also minimise extra driving once you arrive.

Windermere:
A popular base with excellent transport links. You’ll find plenty of boat trips, lakeside walks, and family attractions such as The World of Beatrix Potter.

Keswick:
Great for active families. Enjoy walking trails, boat rides on Derwentwater, and outdoor activities at the Keswick Adventure Centre.

Ambleside:
A lovely mix of cosy cafés, outdoor shops, and family-friendly walks. It’s also close to Rydal Water and Loughrigg Fell, both perfect for little hikers.

Coniston:
A quieter option with stunning scenery. Coniston Water is ideal for boating, and nearby Grizedale Forest offers cycling trails and a Go Ape course.

When to Go

Spring (April–June):
Expect blooming landscapes, milder temperatures, and fewer crowds before the summer rush.

Autumn (September–October):
Enjoy beautiful autumn colours, quieter paths, and enough daylight for family adventures.

If your dates are flexible, try to avoid school holiday peaks. You’ll often find better prices and more availability.

When and Where to Book

Compare prices across hotel websites and trusted booking platforms. Booking directly with the hotel can sometimes offer extras like free breakfast, flexible cancellation, or potential room upgrades.

Family rooms in the Lake District book up quickly, especially during school holidays, so it’s best to reserve early.

What to Pack

• Layers: The weather can change quickly in the Lakes. Lightweight layers that pack away easily are ideal.

• Waterproofs and wellies: Helpful for puddle-jumping and walks in all weathers.

• Comfortable walking shoes: Essential for the whole family.

• Entertainment: Books, games, or tablets for evenings or rainy hours.

• Snacks and refillable water bottles: Perfect for hikes, car journeys, and keeping little ones fuelled.